Despite some torrential rain at the start of the match, which saw Lashing's Franklin Rose play the first ball of the game with an umbrella, the annual charity match on July 2nd 2004 proved a great success and resulted in a first victory for Lashings over the Bunburys.
Before the game, a minute's silence was held in memory of the late David Pilling, one of Alconbury's favourite sons, who founded the charity match and whose tireless work has helped raise over £60,000 for MENCAP and other local charities over the years.
The Bunbury's side included Matt Dawson, England Rugby World Cup winner, TV presenter Jamie Theakston and boxer Lloyd Honeygan while the impressive Lashings line up featured former test cricket stars Courtney Walsh, Richie Richardson, Junior Murray and Henry Olonga.
Lashings batted first and in a reduced 20 overs-a-side match, amassed an impressive total of 229-2, with Rose making 97 before being bowled by Dawson. Junior Murray made 80, Grant Flower 20 not out and former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif 24 not out. Rose's innings included 37 off one over, bowled by TalkSPORT Radio's Andy Jacobs. The Lashings total was all the more impressive when you take into account the fact that at one point, Bunburys had 17 players in fielding positions!
In reply, Bunburys could only manage 174-4, with Northampton and England rugby star Nick Beale top scoring with 51. Toby Gripper made 49, Charlotte Edwards, England Ladies vice-captain, scored 34 and James Major made 15 before falling victim to Courtney Walsh.
The legendary Dickie Bird once again assisted with umpiring together with Sir Brian Mawhinney, MP for North West Cambridgeshire.
In spite of the weather, the day was once again a huge success, with a large crowd gathering to enjoy the afternoon and Dame Norma Major accepting a cheque on behalf of MENCAP.
As the above photograph shows, some of the great names in world cricket were at 2004's charity match at Alconbury. Henry Olonga was also there.